Tuesday 30th April 2019 - Crag Farm side of Dalton Crags
Birdsong was coming from 3 Blackcaps, 1 Chiffchaff and several Willow Warblers, then it was great to hear our Cuckoo who has just returned to Dalton Crags this morning, also whilst climbing up through Crag Farm side I could hear a fresh returned Common Whitethroat in song, Linnets overhead.
Checked out the flora around the Plain Quarry and then through Dalton Crags and enjoying all the Early Purple Orchids plus lots of other stuff.
Photo: Plain Quarry Dalton on 30th April 2019
Photo: Plain Quarry Dalton on 30th April 2019
Photo: Plain Quarry, Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Plain Quarry, Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Plain Quarry, Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Crag Farm, Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Crag Farm, Dalton Crags on 30th April 2019
Photo: Orchid spikes on Dalton Crags - Crag Farm side
Photo: Orchid spikes on Dalton Crags - Crag Farm side
Please note these are just showing the spikes of several orchids, I have taken most of them also showing the full plant which some will go into the "orchid blog"
Please come back soon lots being put on - presently editing
Monday 29th April 2019 - Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadows of Holme Park Fell, Farleton side of Hutton Roof.
A lovely sunny morning yet very breezy which was making it very difficult to take photos etc.
I had several Bullfinch calling and flying past. A couple of Chiffchaff were calling along with several Willow Warblers, and so nice to see and hear a Curlew calling whilst it was heading in a South East direction. Also Linnets which appear to be breeding amongst the gorse.
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I was very pleased to see just how well the Dog Violets were actually carpetting quite a lot of areas. The bracken in these parts is really helping to keep that micro-climate at floor level during the winter months and in doing so helping the production of the violets. This is all good news for the butterflies including our rare High Brown Fritillary butterfly. Here is a photo below showing a small area, please make sure you click over the photo to enlarge.
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadows of Holme Park Fell, Hutton Roof.
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One of my main reasons for visiting the Stints today was to assess the situation with the hundreds of Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids). There were quite a lot of tall (up to 14") with mature spikes, and there were lots at medium height, but I still think to get the best it will be another 10 days or so! I will book it in my diary for around the 8th May.
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 29th April 2019
Photo: 29th April 2019 - Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadow of Hutton Roof
Fresh fronds within the shallow gryke
Photo: 29th April 2019 - Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadow of Hutton Roof
Close up of individual frond
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadow of Hutton Roof
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures in the shadows of Hutton Roof
"I feel sorry for a lonesome Herb Robert on a massive pavement"
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures 29th April 2019
Geum rivale (Water avens) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Clawthorpe Ln, close to Holme Stinted Pastures, Farleton, Hutton Roof 29th April 2019.
Shows 1) the flower external 2) the flower internal 3) the mid leaf half way down the stem 4) the type of habitat it likes.
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Saturday 27th April 2019 - Slape Lane, and a Bluebell Wood - 1700hrs
So eventually I got out just to try and get some more Vicia sepium (Bush Vetch) photos together with Alliaria petiolata (Garlic Mustard), Silene dioica (Red Campion) and Hyacinthoides non-scripta (Bluebell) Wood photos and what a lovely strange Bluebell I came across.
Photo: A bluebell wood just off Slape Lane below Hutton Roof Crags
A beautiful unknown to me variety of white main colour with purple light streaking
Some more nice Vicia sepium (Bush Vetch) photos of the leaflets and leaves and the duller coloured petals. I noticed the range of colours seem to go from white/cream/rust/light blue/blue to purple (see photo below)
Photo: Slape Lane below Hutton Roof on 27th April 2019
Showing colour variation in petals
Photo: Slape Lane below Hutton Roof on 27th April 2019
Showing colour variation in petals
Photo: Slape Lane below Hutton Roof on 27th April 2019
Showing nice close up of petals - note bristle point (mucro) at the end of the leaflet
Photo: Slape Lane below Hutton Roof on 27th April 2019
A nice In situ photo
Saturday 27th April 2019
Photo: The Rakes, Hutton Roof 14th April 2019
"Early flora emergence resulting from probable micro-climate" on the Hutton Roof - East side
Have not ventured today so far, the conditions don't seem so good for trundling along the paths and tracks of the Roof. So I am sat here at the computer thinking all sorts of "nature things" but always on the ready for off.
But one thing seems very interesting to me having this month spent a little time over on the Hutton Roof side in particular at the fantastic geological site called the Rakes.
I am convinced this area around the Rakes and below it to it's East does have its own little micro-climate, and as such expect that lots of it's flora are coming along much quicker (up to 2 weeks earlier) than elsewhere on the Hutton Roof complex, let me try and explain more on this.
I have never seen such early specimens of Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort), Orchis Mascula (Early Purple Orchid) and Allium ursinum (Ramsons) that I did on my recent visits on both the 14th and 15th April. Even of further interest were that these particular specimens were in full bloom when I saw them and obviously must have had a earlier emergence date. In fact as regards the Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchid) I have it on good authority that one or two specimens were in full flower as early as the 7th April.
In past years I have also noted that Violets and primula species have also been seen earlier from this side of the Hutton Roof complex than anywhere else!
Friday 26th April 2019 - Newbiggin Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof
Another very windy day and hard to take on photos, and what another great drenching I got!! but all worth it in love and war and what more love could you have than whats radiated by our countryside and all its little (or big) perks on offer for those who choose to want it! I definately want it......
Little in the way of our Wheatear, but did have one bird yet again on the East summit, but seen this bird a couple of days and not sure whether its Leucorrea (Greenland) or a new local breeding Oenanthe (European) bird, I guess time will tell. Also 3 Skylarks.
Although no confirmation this morning, I feel like I may well have had the Ring Ouzels flying over and into the distance
Found even more Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids) on the raised part of the Newbiggin Crags, probably bringing the number so far recorded up here to about 150 plus.
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Thursday 25th April 2019 - Slape Lane and then Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT)
Photo: Slape Lane 25th April 2019
Whilst traversing Slape Lane it became clear that Red Campion was showing along with Ramsons, and Bush vetch.
A massive hatch of small flies in their thousands which almost stemmed throughout the full length of my walk across Slape Lane and perhaps two metres deep above my head. They reminded me so much of St. Marks Fly with their jumping and hovering, and had that up curled tail, but for some reason they seemed small in comparison to how I thought I remembered St. Marks Fly.
Orange Tip butterflies were feeding up whilst getting cover from the breezes by operating within the hedge boundaries. A new (this year) Blackcap was singing from established territory. I had a further 3 Blackcaps all singing away in Lancelot Clark Storth, all on regular territories. Also had 3 Chiffchaffs, and several Willow Warblers.
Photo taken 25th April 2019
Photo: Pickles Wood, Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) 25th April 2019
bottom left Silene dioica (Red Campion) and bottom right Galium odoratum (Woodruff).
Photo: 25th April 2019
Whilst coming through Slape I noticed the Moschatel were becoming difficult to find now because of advancing neighbouring vegetation starting to take over their space, I guess everything must have it's day before being subjected to a type of pecking order from the bigger and bolder specimens.
Advanced through Lancelot with Pickles Wood on my right and checked out the fabulous Bluebell woods, and also the Paris quadrifolia (Herb Paris) which just had one plant in flower (see photo). On way noticing several Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids).
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth 25th April 2019
I checked on two separate populations of Polygonatum odoratum (Angular Solomons Seal) which are both already at 2 to 3 inches, which makes them about 10 days earlier than the norm. (see photo) Click here to see my odoratum blog
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) 25th April 2019
I wanted in particular to check out our albino Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchid) and sure enough it is doing well (see photo), also wanted to find and record my third population of Spring Cinquefoil which is up on Lancelot. With the weather not being sunny today the cinquefoils were closed and looked forlorn but will spring back to life as soon as the sun comes out.
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 25th April 2019
Also checked out our Epipactis helleborine (Broad Leaved Helleborines) which are just starting out and you can see from the photo they are at about 2 or 3" tall.
2017 was a good year, 2018 was a draught year and impaired growth and 2019 is just starting off as you can see at the bottom of the photo.
Photo: taken yesterday 26th April 2019
Checked out another of our Hutton Roof specials Hypericum montanum (Pale St. John's Wort) and they are coming along very well, look at this photo and it now shows 3 generations within the same photo. I have marked the growth showing current and the past two years as well. Click here to see my Pale St. Johns Wort Blog
Throughout the Dryopteris sub-montana (Rigid Buckler Fern), and the Gymnocarpium robertianum (Limestone Fern)
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth, (CWT), Hutton Roof on 25th April 2019
also needed to check out the third population of Potentilla tabernaemontani (Spring Cinquefoil) (see photos below)
Photo: Lancelot Clarke Storth (CWT) 26th April 2019
The photos above depict the habitat of my third population of Potentilla. Sadly the day was overcast and the flowers closed as they do. Click here to see my Spring cinquefoil blog
Wednesday 24th April 2019 - Newbigging Crags and Farleton side
The majority of the presumed Northern Greenland Wheatear have moved on and I only saw one bird this morning, plus another regular which was one of the local 'oenanthe". The Ring Ouzel pair are still with us and could also be heard chacking from time to time. I have recorded them now since Easter Saturday. Had my first returning COMMON REDSTART today calling in Newbiggin Crags, also in the same vicinity had a Yellowhammer.
Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof - 24th April 2019
Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids) are popping up all over the place and found another three populations with one or two quite large plants, I counted probably in the region 80-100. Here are photos of one or two.
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof on 24th April 2019
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof on 24th April 2019
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof on 24th April 2019
Wow some fantastic sedges about today (photos above)
Photo: 24th Apri 2019 - Newbigging Crags, Farleton
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof 24th April 2019
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof 24th April 2019
Photo: Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof 24th April 2019
Dryopteris sub-montana (Rigid Buckler Ferns) are coming through now thick and fast and here are some specimens from Newbigging Crags, Farleton, Hutton Roof this morning.
Monday 22nd April 2019 - Newbigging Crags and later Clawthorpe Fell
Photo taken on 22nd April 2019
Initially went over the regular stomping ground of Newbigging Crags to check out if we still were getting any of those special visitors and sure enough had 6 of those Northern Greenland Wheatear, also a female Ring Ouzel plus Linnets and lots of Skylarks.
Found a little piece of special heathland which had lots of open Orchis mascula Early Purple Orchids in bloom, I guess there were well over 30.
Photo: Newbigging Fell, Farleton, 22nd April 2019
Also on the Farleton side I found Medicago lupulina (Black Medick) in flower (photo above) and also lots of cranesbill, but what sort of Cranesbill is it?
Moving down to Clawthorpe I straightaway noticed my first of the year Speckled Woods and also a fine Brimstone butterfly.
I purposely wanted to check out the Potentilla tabernaemontani (Spring Cinquefoil) on Clawthorpe Fell. It looks a really good year with perhaps up to 50 flowers this year spread out. I am showing photos depicting close ups, leaf rosettes, and distribution on the floor photos etc. I really need to show the full photos so here we go:
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Photo: Clawthorpe Fell 22nd April 2019.
Saturday 20th April 2019 Newbigging Crags and Farleton Fell (pm)
Went in particular to check out if there were still any Northern Greenland Wheatear and yes I had 11 birds predominently male plumage which is usual. Whether these are new arrivals or leftovers from yesterday I don't have a clue but I'll bet there are scores of N.G Wheatear on the total areas of the fells. I did a sample further across and found odd pair or two..
It was especially nice to have a pair of Ring Ouzel close to the first escarpment after leaving the car. I was watching the male for quite some time feeding up on the ground (see photo below) and did manage to get a far away photo, but then his lady joined him and they flew to the escarpment
Another rarity included a Tree Pipit which had just come in plus there were Linnets (2 pair) a pair of Green Woodpeckers, 11 singing Willow Warblers, a pair of Mistle Thrush.
Photo: 20th April 2019
Called off at the Whinn Yeates filled in Lime Kiln and the Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) and Asplenium ceterach (Rusty Back Fern are both doing well.
Friday 19th April 2019 - Dalton Crags to Trig Point (pm)
Lots of Willow Warblers everywhere, all known breeding territories are covered. Just one Northern Greenland Wheatear (near gully), also had both pairs of Stonechat's territory being marked by the males.
Did a check on the Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) on the first escarpment, also nice to see early Gymnocarpium robertianum (Limestone Fern) and Dryopteris sub-montana (Rigid Buckler Fern) just starting off in the lower Crags.
Photo: Dalton Crags 20th April 2019
Photo: Dalton Crags 20th April 2019
Photo: Dalton Crags, 20th April 2019
Photo: Dalton Crags, 20th April 2019
Friday 19th April 2019 Newbiggin Crags, Farleton Fell (Hutton Roof)
Today was fabulous, checking out regular areas for passing Northern Greenland Wheatear, had a total of 30 birds and only went as far as the Turtle Stone and Newbiggin and back around in a circular, so guess there must have been a lot passing through last night. My parties were a 7, a 6, a 5, a 3,2, and several singles, all within a half mile radius. No Ring Ouzels today, did have a few passing Swallows, but only a 2 and a 5 Meadow Pipits, lots of Skylarks (as usual). Another bonus, a single and then a paired Yellowhammers, also 2 Linnets. Also had a Peacock and a female Orange Tip.
Checked out some young Rigid Buckler Fern, and took photos of Wall Rue etc.
Some nice shots of Newbigging (Farleton side)
Photo: Newbigging, Farleton, Hutton Roof on 19th April 2019
Photo: Newbigging, Farleton, Hutton Roof
19th April 2019
Photo: Newbiggin, Farleton, Hutton Roof
A beauty with a lot of green in the flower
Thursday 18th April 2019 - Dalton Crags
Today I had 10 Willow Warblers calling from 25% area of the Crags, 1 Blackcap, had my first pair of TREE PIPITS today, although Robert from Kendal had some several days ago. Had 2 pairs of Stonechats on their breeding territories. Also had 3 Northern Greenland Wheatear (again my first so far this year), had Redpoll overhead to East, Swallows 7 to East, a pair of Sand Martin to East and 11 Meadow Pipits over the hour to NE. A late party of 7 Fieldfare checking out the woodlands. Also of interest 2 pair of Swallows already back on territory at Russell Farm, also saw 23 (8,1,12,1) Meadow Pipits go over Curwen Wood to a North direction in a 10 minute period
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Shows 6 croziers above the main body
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Cystopteris fragilis (Brittle Bladder Fern) Click over to enlarge
Photo: Dalton Crags (lower escarpment) 18th April 2019
Wednesday 18th April 2019 - Slape Lane and Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT)
I counted 12 calling Willow Warblers calling from Pickles Wood and Lancelot. 3 Chiffchaffs and 4 Blackcap calling. Also definately noticing more and more Marsh Tits this year which were very vocal from two areas within Lancelot. Also had 2 Brimstone and 4 Peacock butterflies.
also has a Saxifraga tridactylites Rue Leaved Saxifrage
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth, Hutton Roof, 17th April 2019
Ground Ivy seems to be springing up all over the place, its lovely! also checked on the Moschatel, the Bluebell woods are taking shape and will be ready for a photo in about ten days time. Wood Anemone are so large this year. The Stitchwort is also doing well.
A lovely surprise today was to note that at least 10 Potentilla tabernaemontani (Spring Cinquefoil) flowers were on show, I think it could well be a good year for this rare species. Common Cow-wheat is also just starting to show. Also nice to see Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort) in its regular places. Also Carex ornithopodia (Birds Foot Sedge) is just starting to come through, but it will be the middle of May before they flower.
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 17th April 2019
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 17th April 2019
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 17th April 2019
Melampyrum pratense (Common Cow-wheat) above is starting to show in Lancelot.
Our albino Early Purple (below) is still doing OK and if you check the photo you will notice there is also a regular EPO just starting to show through.
Showing the rare Albino above and below it shows a regular just about to open.
Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 17th April 2019
Photo: Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) Hutton Roof on 17th April 2019
Tuesday 16th April 2019 - Crag Foot, The Rakes, Hutton Roof
A follow up from yesterday giving me far more time to concentrate on the area.
Hanging Scar Rock at Crag Foot, Hutton Roof
Note: Half way up on either side the rare Polypodium cambricum (Southern polypody)
I did a count of the Willow Warblers which were 11 (at the Crag Foot area) and 10 (in the general Rakes areas - making a total of 21 singing birds. Also had 4 Chiffchaffs and 4 Blackcaps in the general area. Also had a Peacock butterfly. Also had a couple of paired Roe deer. Evidence with Hazel nuts of Dormouse presence.
I called off again at the Hanging Scar Rock to take more details of the fabulous Polypodium cambricums and take one or two more photos.
Then enjoyed taking photos of the Sesleria caerulea (Blue Moor Grass) managed to find a couple of beautiful varieties along with many blues in flower. I will put the photos on here soon.
Sesleria caerulea (Blue Moor Grass variations)
Photo: Crag Foot, Hutton Roof 16th April 2019
Sesleria caerulea (Blue Moor Grass)
regular in flower
Sesleria caerulea (Blue Moor Grass)
The "light" variety
Sesleria caerulea (Blue Moor Grass)
"Green variety"
regular in flower
Photo: Crag Foot, Hutton Roof 16th April 2019
The "light" variety
Photo: Crag Foot, Hutton Roof 16th April 2019
"Green variety"
Photo: Crag Foot, Hutton Roof 16th April 2019
Had my first flowering Allium ursinum (Ramsons) of the year, not a large patch maybe a couple of yards in diameter. Had up to 10 Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchid) throughout with scores in rosette. Found two separate colonies of Paris quadrifolia (Herb Paris) one up to 10ft diameter and a smaller population of 5ft x 3ft which was right at the side of the woodland track. One or two will flower in about 10 days but most of them will be another three weeks.
Allium ursinum (Ramsons) - Click over photo to enlarge
Photo: Crag Foot, Hutton Roof, 16th April 2019
Paris quadrifolia (Herb Paris) - Click over photo to enlarge
Photo: Hutton Roof 16th April 2019
The old lime kilns are fantastic ferny places and the Hutton Roof disused kiln is no exception with good populations of aspleniums of both Trichomanes and probably more interesting for the amount of and here are a few photos, please note the photo with the croziers.
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Home of Aspleniums trichomanes and
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Home of Aspleniums trichomanes and
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Hutton Roof old lime kiln (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Asplenium scolopendrium (Harts Tongue Fern)
The Rakes, Hutton Roof on 16th April 2019
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
Above shows part of the RINNENKARREN on the Rakes at Hutton Roof
Found my first Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort) of the year
Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort)
Photo: 14th April 2019 - The Rakes Hutton Roof
viola riviniana (Common Dog Violet)
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof 14th April 2019
Its been a cracking year so far for the violets with multitudes and hopefully this should be good support for the butterflies.
Polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody) - (Click to enlarge)
Photo: Hutton Roof Village 14th April 2019
I like this photo which clearly shows the new croziers of Polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody coming from the gaps in the walls.
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
Also today whilst on the Rakes, I found two Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids) in flower. In fact I am told that they have been out in full flower for over one week, which for the North is a great start!
Orchis mascula Early Purple Orchid (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof - 14th April 2019 (No.1)
Orchis mascula Early Purple Orchid (Click over to enlarge)
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof - 14th April 2019 (No.2)
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
The old lime kilns are fantastic ferny places and the Hutton Roof disused kiln is no exception with good populations of aspleniums of both Trichomanes and probably more interesting for the amount of and here are a few photos, please note the photo with the croziers.
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Home of Aspleniums trichomanes and
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Home of Aspleniums trichomanes and
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
Photo: Hutton Roof 17th April 2019
The Rakes, Hutton Roof on 16th April 2019
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
Found my first Minuartia verna (Spring Sandwort) of the year
Photo: 14th April 2019 - The Rakes Hutton Roof
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof 14th April 2019
Its been a cracking year so far for the violets with multitudes and hopefully this should be good support for the butterflies.
Photo: Hutton Roof Village 14th April 2019
I like this photo which clearly shows the new croziers of Polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody coming from the gaps in the walls.
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
Also today whilst on the Rakes, I found two Orchis mascula (Early Purple Orchids) in flower. In fact I am told that they have been out in full flower for over one week, which for the North is a great start!
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof - 14th April 2019 (No.1)
Photo: The Rakes Hutton Roof - 14th April 2019 (No.2)
Sunday 14th April 2019 - The Rakes, Hutton Roof
Today I was asked if I would be a botany advisor (if called upon) with a party from the Westmorland Geologist Society whilst they did a walk around the Rakes area.
It soon proved beneficial in many ways for I was to find a new population of the rare Polypodium cambricum (Southern Polypody) sitting on the side of a large boulder known locally has the "hanging scar rock". This brings the Hutton Roof populations to 3. Here are three photos showing the beauties:
Hanging Scar Rock, Hutton Roof
14th April 2019 - a new to me population of
Polypodium cambricum (Southern Polypody)
Population No. 3
Hanging Scar Rock, Hutton Roof
14th April 2019 - a new to me population of
Polypodium cambricum (Southern Polypody)
Population No. 3
Hanging Scar Rock, Hutton Roof
14th April 2019 - a new to me population of
Polypodium cambricum (Southern Polypody)
Population No. 3
Hanging Scar Rock, Hutton Roof
14th April 2019 - a new to me population of
Polypodium cambricum (Southern Polypody)
Population No. 3
Saturday 13th April 2019 - Quarry Wood, Dalton Lane (Private Woodland)
First of all I surveyed all the ancient quarry face checking out the Trichomanes and others. I found a little beauty with overlapping pinnae. Here are the photos:
Photo: Quarry Wood, Dalton (private) on 13th April 2019
A unusual frond of small build compared to its neighbours with lots of overlapping pinnae
Photo: Quarry Wood, Dalton (private) on 13th April 2019
A unusual frond of a small nature compared to its neighbours with lots of overlapping pinnae
then I checked out more polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody) looking pretty whilst danging from midway up a tree. I do suspect there are a couple of interjectum amongst them.
Photo: Quarry Wood (private) Dalton Ln, 13th April 2019
Photo: Quarry Wood (private) Dalton Ln, 13th April 2019
I found this branch which had lost its bark to open up such a attractive patterned display
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
found on floor of old disused quarry - Quarry Wood, Burton In Kendal
Photo: 13th April 2019
Photo: Quarry Wood old rock face, Burton In Kendal 13th April 2019
Showing new emergence with croziers
Photo: Quarry Wood old rock face, Burton In Kendal 13th April 2019
Showing new emergence with croziers
Photo: Quarry Wood, Dalton on 13th April 2019
New emergence - note crozier - also remnants of old frond
Saturday 13th April 2019 - Holme Stinted Pastures
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Friday 12th April 2019 - Holme Stinted Pastures
Enjoyed this morning checking out the Stints, I had 15 Willow Warblers in Song, 2 Chiffchaffs and at least one Blackcap (Could well have been two). Also the odd Meadow Pipit overhead, but really slow and not gaining pace at the moment, must be down to this cold chill from the East. Also had 3 Linnets on the gorse (one paired), odd skylarks "rooting in the pastures" and a pair of Wheatear on territory and calling in song.
The ground this morning was crispy dry and you heard the crunchy noise with every stride, it's obvious water is necessary.
Wow! and a fabulous nobbly tree with thousands of 'warts and all', just check the photos further down.
A nice little photo section on the newly "flowering" Sesleria caerulea (Blue moor grass) It's only been out a couple of week and here we are already flowering.
Had some weird Polystitchum aculeatums today, not just one but several all with super small fronds eg: 3" across at centre. I just thought at first it was down to immature plants but no! checking the rear of the frond there was plenty of spent sori, so not sure what to make of it all. Below are a couple of photos.
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: taken on Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures - 12th April 2019
this final photo shows the full tree
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Photo: Holme Stinted Pastures on 12th April 2019
Thursday 11th April 2019 - Heysham and Bolton le Sands
(1500 to 1700hrs) Had a single Swallow going N and later over at Bolton le Sands (at coast) had 5 (3 and 2) Swallows heading N.
Wednesday 10th April 2019 - Burton In Kendal Main Street
1730hrs - Saw our first two House Martins flying above the village - close to Morewood Drive.
Wednesday 10th April 2019 - Dalton Crags, Hutton Roof and Burton Fell
We checked out various whilst traversing the Crags and eventually the Common were we checked out the Lonchitis (Holly Ferns). No 1 was all OK and in its usual stance staring at the heavens, whilst number 2 had as usual been well nibbled although there were still a couple of fronds facing the heavens, with one in particular still in reasonable condition. What was interesting I noticed on this frond that it too has a small pinnae (runt). I had never noticed this before. Why it is of special interest today, is that Holly Fern No.1 also had this same feature! (see photos below)
Photo: taken 10th April 2019 - Hutton Roof Common
Photo: taken 30th August 2013 - Hutton Roof Common
continuing across the Common and checking out the Asplenium Viride (Green Spleenwort) on the way, we were far too early for croziers here! just sad looking specimens from last years crop.
A plant which did look interesting and one I had probably not noticed before was a type of stitchwort/chickweed/mouse ear, which had taken over the top of a old ant hill. It was a miniature version version of the regular Stitchwort and looked fabulous grouped as it was (see photo below)
To continue we checked out some of the fly orchids which were doing really well and looks like it will be a good year this time. Also the Early Purple rosettes seemed to be everywhere, I really can't wait to check out their magnificence and their varietal forms this year.
A couple of nice Saxifraga tridactylites (Rue Leaved Saxifrage) shots were taken down in Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) - see below.
Photo: taken on Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) on 10th April 2019
Photo: taken on Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) on 10th April 2019
Whilst on Lancelot I wanted to check out the old Hypericum montanums our very rare Pale St. Johns Wort, the reason was they became stunted last year because of the drought and just like lots of our orchids and other plants received stunted growth because of this. I have taken a photo yesterday to give you some idea. (see below).
Photo: taken on Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) on 10th April 2019
You can see from the old spikes the tall ones are from 2017 and the smaller more recent ones are from 2018 (note the 2018 are stunted by over 12" in comparison (or the norm).
To finish off this magnificient day in great company, I checked out more Fly Orchids which were doing OK and also our ONLY Hutton Roof albino Early Purple Orchid which looks to be doing fine and just hope this year it resist the pressures of our local Brown Hare!! (see photo from today)
Wednesday 10th April 2019 - The Lots, Silverdale (am) and then over to Dalton Crags, Hutton Roof, Burton Fell
A nice day and joined by Dr. Richard "Hawkeye" Bate, we first of all checked out the fabulous Asplenium ruta-muraria new croziers which were to be seen in many of the open cracks to the walls in Silverdale, just by the steps which lead up to the Lots.
It was lovely to witness my first four Swallows of the year (grouped) and flying overhead to the North
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Photo: Silverdale Lots 10th April 2019
Asplenium ruta-muraria (Wall Rue) Click over photo to enlarge
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Photo: taken close to The Lots, Silverdale 10th April 2019
Shows the Emergence of the species with new croziers
Tuesday 9th April 2019 - Slape Lane and Clawthorpe, Burton In Kendal
1600hrs - Checking out more Moschatel, but main purpose to check out the old limekiln for the new croziers of the Asplenium trichomanes (Maidenhair spleenwort) see photos below
includes Rue Leaved Saxifrage
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
includes Rue Leaved Saxifrage
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
includes Rue Leaved Saxifrage
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: taken at Clawthorpe Old Lime Kiln, Burton In Kendal 9th April 2019
Photo: 9th April 2019 - Woodland off Slape Lane, Clawthorpe
Photo: 9th April 2019 - Woodland off Slape Lane, Clawthorpe
because of the twisted trunk which would not be seen under the bark!
because of the twisted trunk which would not be seen under the bark!
Monday 8th April 2019 - The Lots Silverdale
(mid afternoon) Went over to the Lots to check out the progress of the Green Winged Orchids and also the Early Purples. Also two Brimstone butterflies near the Silverdale Cove.
There were plenty to be seen but you needed to look really close and I have in the following photos tried to show the more advanced specimens.
Photo: The Lots Silverdale
Photo: The Lots Silverdale
Monday 8th April 2019 - Dalton Crags
Photo: taken today on Dalton Crags.
Shows good examples of new croziers just starting to come through over the old fronds
Straightaway at the Plain Quarry car park I had two Blackcap singing away. A little further on just after passing through the escarpments and taking the route up through Hypericum Way I was met by one the most graceful of warblers, the Willow Warbler singing her ditty! it was lovely and peaceful and the first Willow Warbler to arrive back in Dalton Crags. I spent a little time trying to establish if there were more, but she was the only one I saw and heard. It's well worth checking all areas at the moments because there is every chance that a "Confusion of Warblers" could be found. I written a poem a year or two back which I will add at the end of the reports.
The wind again was a little naughty with still those Easterlies getting through and taking the edge of those fine rays of sunshine, I guess today was blowing at about 8mph. Was hoping to get more Meadow Pipits crossing over, but literally had one bird over two hours. A local Song Thrush performed the Curlew part song with precision!. It was great to be informed that our first local Swallow had returned and was on territory at Dalton Hall this morning.
Herb Robert showing all over the place today. Also managed to get a photo of the Asplenium trichomanes (Maidenhair Spleenwort) newly formed fronds showing croziers opening up (see photo above). Had a Brimstone butterfly at Plain Quarry.
WILLOW WARBLERS –
COLLECTIVES
Flying in the dark
through a moonlit sky,
Falling from high
like little angels,
Floating down on a
wavering leaf,
The “confusion”
has now begun.
Our dear little
Willow Warbler
Daytime closed you
was not seen,
Whilst morning
wakes your plenty,
So tred so soft
our leaf explorer,
A “bouquet” of
special prize to us,
Our dear little Willow
Warbler
Your music is a
descending tale,
Which finish the
year hou whit,
A choir of pairs
sings thy will,
A “Fall” would be
a lot of thee,
Our dear little
Willow Warbler
Sylvia’s hand of
lucid intricacy
You thread that
weave so delicately,
To house and raise
a splendid cast,
It’s a start to a
“Wrench” fulfilled
Our dear little
Willow Warbler
Sunday 7th April 2019 - Valve House area and Dalton Park Wood, Dalton Hall Estate (includes areas where permission is required)
1300hrs to 1500hrs - Just checking out area for Wheatear, but none present today, Checked out a little of Dalton Park Wood on the Estate for Willow Warblers but none back yet, although did have one of the returning Chiffchaffs. Also found some nicely populated areas of Chrysoplenium opposititfolium (Opposite Leaved Saxifrage) (photo). Also lots of Ground Ivy in bloom, Primroses and several Bluebells. One Peacock butterfly.
7th April 2019 - Dalton Hall Estate
7th April 2019 - Dalton Hall Estate
7th April 2019 - Dalton Hall Estate
7th April 2019 - Dalton Hall Estate
Sunday 7th April 2019 - Main Street, Burton
1200hrs - Just had another returning Chiffchaff confirmed, which I had singing at Ryecroft (next to the Memorial Hall)
Saturday 6th April 2019 - Slape Lane, Lancelot Clark Storth and Burton Fell
From 1100hrs to 1530hrs A beautiful afternoon with plenty of sunshine and so nice to take refreshment whilst sat on a boulder up in Burton Fell enjoying the tranquility with only birds singing in the background whilst absorbing a intake of warm sunshine.
I set out along Slape Lane, it soon became noticable that the nettles on the sides of the bridleway were full of Ladybirds (UK), vetches had grown to about 4" stems and would not be long before showing their beautiful flowers. What looked like honey bees where enjoying the multitude of Lesser Celandine, some of these celandines were as big as the old half crowns (about 2" diameter). One of my main aims today was to look for the Moschatel (Town Hall clock) which I did find and duly gps recorded, although trying to take a photograph has not turned out well!. The Slape Lane Chiffchaff has returned ok and singing away. Had a Brimstone butterfly passing me and using the corridor of the Slape Lane. Large parties of Black Headed Gulls went overhead and I wrote in my diary "had a spirt on", it was fly with haste to the nearby newly farrowed fields to get their spoils whilst Herring Gulls could be heard high up in the heavens. Very large bumblebees where on display, they were dark with lots of light ginger from their shoulder and most of their back. Another Chiffchaff was heard close to where the paths cross to make your way over to Clawthorpe. A Red Admiral butterfly alighted on the ground, but just as the camera was prepared it flew off. Marsh Tits were calling from the beautiful bluebell wood. Some of the bluebells were already showing flowers but it will be another couple of weeks before they are at their best, also the Wood Anemones are coming through in leaps and bounds. Also had Water Avens in the margins. Nuthatches calling from everywhere with their supercharged wit,wit,wit,wit,wit calls repeated like the bullets from a gun! I could hear the little Treecreepers singing away so quiet yet cheerful. Also more Marsh Tits in Pickles Wood, Had four Peacock butterflies in Lancelot Clark Storth, one actually scrapping with a Comma butterfly, and yet another beautiful Brimstone. The Pickles wood Chiffchaff was singing away close to the deer fence in Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT). Went to check out the Spring Cinquefoil which was still in low rosette (photo). Crossed over into Burton Fell and climbed high up to check out for Willow Warblers, but none in yet, but did have a couple more Chiffchaff marking their territories.
Tipped off from a good source that Wheatear have arrived on the other side of the Dalton Hall estate near the Valve House, I need to check this area because I am sure it will be a welcome stop off for the Northern Greenlands!!
Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT)
one in scuffles with a Comma Butterfly
Saturday 6th April 2019 - Dalton Crags and Common
From 0630hrs to 0900hrs A lovely morning cold at first but soon warming up with just a hint of Easterly breeze coming through.
Two Chiffchaffs calling from around Plain Quarry Car Park, Green Woodpeckers calling, two separate Song Thrushes in full song, Skylarks happy and singing. But Meadow Pipit passage was almost none existent with only 8 birds passing through NW over 2 hours. THE HIGHLIGHT HAS TO BE TWO WILLOW WARBLERS HAVE ARRIVED BACK AND SINGING ON TERRITORY (Uberash) and NW OF THE TRIG POINT, also saw one of them fidgeting about high in the Goat Willow. Also had the pair of Stonechats. Could hear the male singing away with a song I have never heard before and was a lightish song which was repetitive Twu-wiss, issa, issa, issa, then a rest for 30 seconds then repeated, it was lovely to hear it.... I have established at least one breeding pair on territory, but now think there could be two.
Also pleased to have reports through from Robert Ashworth (Kendal) from yesterday. He also confirms the Dalton Crags breeding pair of Stonechats, but also has had another pair back on territory on the Common North of Burton Fell. He also recorded a Tree Pipit feeding up in Lancelot in the company of several Meadow Pipit.
Friday 5th April 2019 - Dalton Crags
Please click over the above photo to enlarge and then you can clearly see the differences.
This example I found this morning (5th April 2019) at the bottom of a fallen decaying tree stump and it clearly shows to the left of the red line Potentilla sterilis (Barren Strawberry) and to the right of the red line Fragaria vesca (Wild Strawberry). This growing close together is seen on a regular basis.
The obvious differences are:
1) The only flowering plants today are Barren Strawberry - shown above on the left (05/04/19)
2) The leaves of the Barren Strawberry (on the left) look much smaller in size than the Wild Strawberry
3) Leaves of the Barren Strawberry are more of a blue/green colour whereby the Wild Strawberry are more true green.
Thursday 4th April 2019
Top left: Blechnum Spicant (Hard Fern) - Dalton Crags 21st May 2015, Top right: Polypodium australe (Southern Polypody) Lancelot Clark Storth (CWT) 13th July 2017
Middle left: Asplenium ceterach (Rusty Back Fern) - Nr. Whinn Yeates late March 2019 Middle right: Asplenium scolopendrium (Harts Tongue Fern) Dalton Crags late March 2019
Bottom: Polystitchum lonchitis (Holly Fern) - Hutton Roof -
21st May 2015
Tuesday 2nd April 2019
Difference between the flowers of both Barren and Wild Strawberries which we have both located on Hutton Roof.
Top photo: Potentilla sterillis (Barren Strawberry) and Bottom photo: Fragaria vesca (Wild Strawberry)
Photos: Top Dalton Crags March 2019 - Bottom Dalton Crags 2018
If you want to check out even more eg: leaves, fruit photos etc then go to my full blog by clicking the following CLICK HERE
Monday 1st April 2019 - Dalton Crags
A belated vismig report of 534 Meadow Pipit to the North over Morecambe Stone Jetty on Saturday morning last (30th March 2019 recorded by: Nick Godden)
Today the temperatures had considerably dropped to something like 7c, I checked throughout Dalton Crags to the bottom side of the "Line of Trees" and could not find our Stonechats and did not have one bird cross over in the skies above, which means the Meadow Mipits are grounded. No wonder when its cold with a wind chill why would they want to progress.
Today the temperatures had considerably dropped to something like 7c, I checked throughout Dalton Crags to the bottom side of the "Line of Trees" and could not find our Stonechats and did not have one bird cross over in the skies above, which means the Meadow Mipits are grounded. No wonder when its cold with a wind chill why would they want to progress.
One of our returning Chiffchaffs at Plain Quarry, Dalton was singing away.
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